Northrup Canyon
Central WashingtonBest Apr–May, Oct–Feb
A forested canyon with winter eagle roosts and bluff views near Steamboat Rock.
About This Trail
Northrup Canyon holds the only native forest in Grant County: ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, and Douglas-fir growing in a sheltered canyon near Steamboat Rock State Park. The trail follows an old ranch road along the canyon floor to an abandoned homestead, then continues to Northrup Lake for those wanting more distance. The forest canopy provides welcome shade in a region where shade barely exists.
Winter transforms this canyon into one of the best bald eagle viewing sites in the state. Up to 200 eagles roost in the trees along the south canyon wall each night from late fall through early spring. The Old Wagon Road Trail branches off from the same trailhead and climbs to bluff-top views of Banks Lake and the surrounding coulee landscape. Fall foliage runs like a river of color through the canyon bottom.
Rattlesnakes emerge in spring and remain active through summer. Ticks and bugs are reported in warmer months. The ranch road can be brushy in sections during the growing season, but the main trail to the homestead stays clear. Early morning starts improve chances of wildlife sightings.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Ranch road had 3 short sections that were brushy in first mile.”
Last report: May 12, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- rattlesnakes (spring through fall)
- ticks in warmer months
- brushy trail sections in summer
Getting There
Trailhead on Northrup Canyon Natural Area Road, 0.7 miles off SR-155. Discover Pass required. Small parking area at the trailhead.
From the parking area, follow the old ranch road into the canyon. The trail splits early: the left fork follows the canyon floor to the homestead and Northrup Lake beyond. The Old Wagon Road Trail branches right and climbs to the bluff tops for wider views. Both options start from the same point.
For eagle viewing, arrive at dawn in winter months (December through February). For general hiking, spring and fall mornings offer the best conditions. Summer visits benefit from the canyon's shade but bugs can be heavy.
Recent Reports
Hiked on a Tuesday morning in the sunshine in early May. It was interesting with the debris from the workers on the Dam and we ended at the farmhouse and property.
Got a late start for birding at 1130, but enjoyed a very pleasant hour and a half meander to the homestead (stopping often to look and listen). Highlights were pheasant calls, a nice long closeup view of a rock wren, a male harrier, a Say’s phoebe at the house, and the beautiful song of a canyon wren that I was unable to see.
The morning was chilly and we were glad for layers. We started by taking the Old Wagon trail up to the top of the bluffs and enjoying the views of the surrounding area, water, and the river of fall foliage.
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